Peterborough school scores 'Outstanding' Ofsted results across the board

A primary school in Peterborough is celebrating after being graded ‘outstanding’ in all areas by Ofsted.

Staff and governors at Fulbridge Academy, in Keeton Road, say they are ‘so pleased’ with the result of their first inspection since converting to an academy in 2013.

The education watchdog praised the teachers for their ‘strong subject knowledge’ – stating the school offers ‘outstanding education’ to its pupils.

An excerpt from the report reads: “Teachers meticulously check how well pupils read and write. Any pupils who fall behind receive immediate help so they catch up. Many pupils achieve better in national tests than other children nationally. As many pupils’ first language is not English, this is exceptional.”

The report goes on: “Pupils love their school and are profoundly happy. They value the outstanding education they receive.

"Pupils achieve exceptionally well. Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary, they attend regularly and care for each other. They respond enthusiastically to teachers’ high expectations. Pupils know their teachers are always mindful of their physical and mental well-being.”

Diversity and positive attitudes to other cultures was also noted, with the report stating: “Pupils’ knowledge of world religions and cultures is strong. They celebrate difference. They focus not on what divides them but on what unites them. This ensures a highly inclusive ethos in this diverse community.”

The school was also praised for offering a range of extra-curricular opportunities for tis pupils, with the inspector noting how many pupils play sports, board games, performing arts and other activities.

"These experiences nurture pupils’ artistic skills, cultural knowledge and sporting abilities,” the report reads. “Trips to the theatre, the beach, a safari park and cave systems enhance what pupils learn in class. Pupils are proud of their forest school. They plant trees and pick litter. Pupils make a considerable contribution to the school and local community.”

Commenting on the report, executive principal Mr Erskine said: “During the two days, inspectors spoke about how the children love their school and express themselves so eloquently. How the school gives children opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have; the depth of the clubs, their love to perform in drama, dance and music as well as their passion for sports.

"An achievement like this is not something that happens overnight. This amazing achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire school community – from our exceptional children to our committed staff and supportive parents.”

Chair of Governors, Karen Hingston added: "All the staff have worked so hard, with the children at the heart of everything they do, this outcome is so very well deserved. We are so very pleased with the outcome of this inspection. There has been a lot recently in the press about Ofsted and the process, it was an intense few days but this result reflects the ongoing hard work and commitment by all the staff at Fulbridge. Their passion and commitment to the children at Fulbridge is clear, and this outcome demonstrates that.”

Head of school, Sam Smee commented: “With this being my first year in post, we knew that an Ofsted visit was imminent and so this is a fantastic recognition of the hard work, commitment and wonderful things that take place at Fulbridge Academy every single day. We all feel very proud of what’s been achieved and long may it continue”.

Mike Sandeman, CEO of Four Cs MAT concluded: “This is an accolade of the highest degree. I would like to thank everyone involved with this outstanding result; this is richly-deserved by all of the Fulbridge Academy community. I am delighted for everyone that their work has been recognised in this way and I am extremely proud of each, and every individual involved in the school.”